Artists have a crucial role to play in the prevention of GBV and the promotion of positive masculinity. Through their creative talents, they can challenge societal norms, offer new models of gender relations, and raise awareness in ways that inspire reflection and action.
Artists have the potential to influence culture, challenge norms and inspire change, which makes them important figures in the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) and the promotion of positive masculinity.
→ By taking a leading role in prevention and awareness campaigns, artists can actively contribute to promoting positive masculinity and challenging the harmful norms that perpetuate GBV. Through their creative influence, they can help reshape attitudes, encourage non-violence, and build a culture of respect that actively opposes discrimination, harassment, and abuse.
⇒ Artists as Catalysts for Change
Artists possess the unique capacity to convey intricate emotions and concepts that deeply connect with audiences across multiple art forms, such as music, theatre, visual arts, and storytelling. This talent to inspire empathy, confront stereotypes, and stimulate critical thinking is particularly significant in the battle against GBV. Through their creations that shed light on the repercussions of violence, artists contribute to raising public awareness, bringing hidden issues to the forefront, and motivating communities to participate in challenging discussions regarding gender, power, and equality.
⇒ Promoting Positive Masculinity
In addressing GBV, it would be beneficial to consider the socialisation of masculinity as an area that could benefit from transformation. Toxic masculinity can sometimes contribute to power imbalances and a culture that condones violence, aggression, and domination. Artists have the potential to play a crucial role in reshaping these narratives by portraying positive examples of masculinity that are rooted in respect, empathy, and equality. Whether through film, book, poetry, or performance art, artists can help to deconstruct harmful stereotypes and redefine what it means to be a man in a way that supports gender equity.
By showcasing men who advocate for consent, emotional expression, and non-violence, artists can foster new models of masculinity that break the cycle of abuse and encourage healthier gender dynamics.
⇒ Art as a Tool for Education and Awareness
Art has the potential to transcend boundaries and reach diverse audiences. This makes it an effective tool for education and awareness-raising on gender-based violence and gender justice. It may be beneficial to consider integrating artistic projects into schools, communities and public spaces as a way of engaging people in learning about the root causes of gender-based violence and the importance of gender equality.
Through books, workshops, public installations, performances and interactive exhibitions, artists can help to create safe spaces for dialogue and reflection, to inform and empower individuals to recognise and challenge gender-based discrimination and violence. It is thought that these initiatives could be particularly impactful in engaging young people, fostering a culture of equality and respect from an early age.
⇒ Collaborating with Organisations
When artists collaborate with civil society organisations, educators, and policy makers, their work can have an even greater impact. By combining their respective expertise, they can create campaigns, educational programmes, and public engagements that elevate the conversation on GBV and positive masculinity. Artists bring creativity and emotional resonance, while organisations provide resources, research, and support for sustained change.
